Chaguanas to hold Indian song contest

By
Carolyn Kissoon carolyn.kissoon@trinidadexpress.com

The Mere Desh committee will host an Indian classical singing competition for youths in celebration on Indian Arrival Day next week.

The Nationwide Indian Youth (Junior) Local Classical Singing Competition is part of the committee’s 24th annual Indian Arrival Day celebrations.

Fifteen youths between the ages 12 to 19 will be selected to participate in the competition.

It takes place at the Chaguanas Market car park, under the patronage of Chaguanas Mayor Gopaul Boodhan, next Friday.

The competition begins at 5 p.m.

The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize but all contestants will be rewarded with cash prizes and trophies.

The best dholak and dhantal players will also receive prizes.

The Mere Desh committee stated, “The goal of this project is to encourage the standard of artistic excellence in our youths involved in local Indian classical singing. Showing this artform is in good hands for the future of our cultural heritage and to the nation.”

Six people will be honoured at the function for their contributions to Indian culture in Trinidad and Tobago. And patrons will be treated to a free medical clinic.

Entertainment will include performances by local classical singers Dubraj Persad, Shantie Maharaj, Manmohan Gosyne and many more.

Youth interested in participating in the competition are asked to submit their names and proof of age to Praimsingh’s Pooja Bavan, located behind the Chaguanas Market or call 672-4423 or 663-6084.